Governor Hochul Announces 400 Years of African-American History Commission Appointments

Statement

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced appointments to the 400 Years of African-American History Commission, which serves to highlight contributions by Africans and African-Americans to our country and to New York State. The Governor made the announcement in Newburgh, where she also announced commemoration plaques to be dedicated in honor of Robert Mulliner and Robert Lewis, two victims of racially-motivated lynchings in Orange County. Robert Mulliner was killed in Newburgh in 1863, and Robert Lewis was killed in Port Jervis in 1892.

"For every reminder of the pivotal role New York has played in the fight for civil rights, there is another, more painful reminder of why that fight was necessary in the first place," Governor Hochul said. "We must recognize and acknowledge shameful chapters in our state's past, ensure New Yorkers have a better understanding of our history, and fight racism and bigotry in all forms. This Black History Month, I am honored to dedicate these plaques and appoint these seven leaders to the 400 Years of African-American History Commission. These actions will help us understand our history better, while pushing us to continue making progress."

Lieutenant Governor Benjamin said, "The leaders we appoint today to the 400 Years of African-American History Commission are some of the sharpest, most dedicated public servants this country has ever seen. They are the best people to help decide how New York can best recognize the history of racism in America--and to envision how to celebrate Black history as we march forward into a more inclusive future. I thank Governor Hochul for making these appointments a priority of her Administration."

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